Magic of Placements

Making a placement-plunging into the center of your oppo­nent's area to destroy eye space or shape or to reduce territory-is full of excitement. In some cases, it will decide who wins a game.

On the other hand, the side against which the placement was played will panic and start to get scared. What exactly is my opponent aiming for? A surprising intrusion like this can easily make you lose your cool.

This book takes a broad look at the power of placement tech­niques, and their countermeasures, from joseki to the endgame. Considering the practical and psychological effects of placements, the destructive power of these moves can only be attributed to magic rather than physical power.

Let us explore two sides of placement techniques: the conditions needed to be able to use this magic and the defensive measures that break the spell.